Almost every single industry was impacted by the work-from-home trend that spiked since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Although things have gotten back to normal, many employers continue to offer remote work options for their employees to avoid resignations. Though working from home offers that work-life balance we all enjoy, other things must be considered, such as this arrangement’s impact on employees’ personal finances.
As Bellingham’s top HVAC service, we’ve witnessed many of our customers show frustration at their increasing energy costs due to remote work. In this blog, we will discuss why remote work impacts your energy bills and leave you with some tips on how to keep them to a minimum.
The Effects of Working from Home On Personal Finances
Does working from home really make a difference in your finances? It is estimated that since COVID and the start of the work-from-home trend, residential electricity consumption has risen by 8%. Here’s why that is:
Increased Use of Home Appliances
When you’re at home more often, it is natural to use your appliances more often. You are more likely to use the stove and fridge and even buy other new devices to accommodate your remote life. Using your stove and microwave more often is enough to see a spike in energy bills, not to mention the increased use of heating and cooling units as well.
Need for Additional Equipment and Technology
Depending on what you do for work, you may need more equipment and technology in the home to accomplish some of your tasks. Printers, filming equipment, and other forms of technology all need the power to run or, at the very least, charge. The use of additional electricity will spike your energy levels.
Differences in Heating and Cooling Costs
Heating and cooling costs significantly impact energy costs as residential HVAC units are used far more frequently by remote employees than those who commute to work. As the weather fluctuates through the seasons in Bellingham, HVAC services and operations are needed more often. All of this extra usage will weigh heavier on your wallet.
Lack of Employer Support for Energy Costs
Few employers are willing to help offset the costs of energy bills that employees accumulate while working for the company Since industrial energy use is decreasing due to the significant shift to employees working from home, there has been a bit of a debate among professionals about whether employers should begin to provide some reimbursement for their employees’ energy costs. Check out the conversation in Time Magazine.
Ways to Cut Costs
Are you a professional who works primarily from home? This arrangement has many benefits for your personal life, but there are things you can do to make things even better by saving money on your energy costs.
Consider Upgrading to Higher Efficiency Equipment
First, optimize your energy efficiency rates by upgrading your heating and cooling equipment. Contact Bellingham HVAC service and installation companies to learn about the AC and heating units available to your home. If you upgrade to a high-tier efficiency unit, you may even qualify for a tax credit or rebate made available through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
If your AC or heater is already optimal and efficient in its operation, you can also consider upgrading to a smart thermostat that will regulate your temperatures based on preset preferences, allowing you to save energy without thinking about it.
Stay on Top of Repairs
Another way to keep your bills to a minimum is to stay on top of the repairs that arise. Common signs of HVAC repairs include:
- Weak airflow or lack thereof
- Strange sounds during operation
- Unpleasant odors
- Inconsistent temperatures
- Higher than usual energy bills
Neglected repairs cause the AC to work harder and use more energy to produce the desired temperatures. As a result, your energy bill will increase. Keep up with AC repairs and maintenance to help keep your energy bill lower.
Washington HVAC Services
Are you in need of an HVAC repair or installation? Contact CM Heating today and get in touch with the best technicians in town. We will help you decrease your energy consumption with efficient HVAC products and services.
